They go by many names: Crafts Shows, Pop-Up Boutiques, Holiday Boutiques, Craft Festivals, Holiday Crafts Fairs, etc. They all amount to gatherings of artisans and small retailers where shoppers can find unique, often handmade items. These are great opportunities to search for gifts at any time of the year, but especially for the end of year holidays. At craft fairs I’ve attended in the past year, products on display have included, clothing, pottery, keychains, magnets, engraved cups, antiques, plants, paintings, and so much more!

Various fairs can include 10 booths or hundreds, with the cost for vendors to participate ranging from $25 up to nearly $1,000 depending on event history, how focused the event, number of expected attendees, and how much the event management spends on advertising and promotion. As a shopper, a Fair with a specific theme is probably your best bet to find items that match your interest. For example, my own food and wine related products have sold very well at wine festivals or at food-focused events.

To find shopping events near you, check for ads in your local newspapers, free magazines, and public service announcements on the radio. Social media has become the main source of event announcements, so keep an eye open on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Try a search of your local community pages, or local craft fairs, craft boutiques, or search terms that include ‘handmade’, ‘crafts’, or ‘holiday’.

If you’d like to find the perfect gift or that special decorative touch for your own home, consider shopping at a Holiday Crafts Fair this year.